Gardiner's Seychelles Frog

Physical description

Gardiner's Frog is one of the smallest frogs in the world, reaching a maximum length of 11 millimetres (0.4 in). Newly hatched frogs measure only 3 millimetres (0.1 in) in length. Adult males are only 8mm long. It is brown in color, and has a dark stripe running from its mouth to its legs.

Ecology and behavior

Gardiner's Frog is a terrestrial frog, feeding on small invertebrates including mites, Sciarid larvae, ants and amphipods. It is restricted to the high and mid-altitude areas of Mahé and Silhouette Islands of the Seychelles group. This is unusual among the Sooglossidae, as most are restricted to the high latitudes, which have a stable climate due to constant mist. Although Gardiner's Frog is secure in the regions in which it is found, it is classified as vulnerable by the IUCN Red List because it is restricted to only five localities.